Volume 129, Issue 34 pp. 10362-10379
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R. B. Woodward: A Larger-than-Life Chemistry Rock Star

Dr. Jeffrey I. Seeman

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Dr. Jeffrey I. Seeman

Department of Chemistry, University of Richmond, Richmond, VA, 23173 USA

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First published: 30 June 2017
Citations: 5

Abstract

To mark the 100th birthday of R. B. Woodward (April 10, 1917–July 8, 1979), a discussion and analysis of Woodward's persona is given. The fundamental theme is that “Woodward experienced his own exceptionality,” as described by Albert Eschenmoser, Woodward's partner in the vitamin B12 project. Woodward's rock star personality is explored and discussed as one of his legacies in addition to his scientific achievements. Woodward presented himself to his students, colleagues, and fellow chemists with an aura of nobility and romanticism.

Conflict of interest

The author declare no conflict of interest.

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